The associations between 2D:4D ratio and behavior problems among Chinese preschool children: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

BackgroundDigit ratio (2D:4D) is considered a biomarker of prenatal androgen activity, the prenatal hormone exposure may affect children's psychology and behavior. ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to analyze the associations between 2D:4D ratio and behavior problems in Chinese preschool children, and to provide ideas for early intervention of children's behavior problems. MethodsA total of 548 Chinese preschool children aged 3–6 years were recruited using a stratified cluster sampling method. The Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) was used to assess the children's behavior. Basic information of the children and their parents was also collected, finger length was directly measured by electronic vernier caliper. ResultsWe found that sex and age of the child, mother's educational level, and whether the child was an only child were the influencing factors of behavior problems (P < 0.05). Right-handed 2D:4D was negatively correlated with parent-reported anxiety/depression (P < 0.05), father-reported aggression (P < 0.05) and attention problems (P < 0.01), that is, high levels of testosterone may increase the risk of anxiety and depression, our results were in contrast to previous studies. ConclusionThe 2D:4D ratio may be related to behavior problems among Chinese preschool children, and prenatal testosterone exposure may be an important factor affecting behavior problems.